Health Encyclopedia

Hip Fracture

Definition

A hip fracture is a break in the thigh bone just below the hip joint. The hip joint consists of a ball at the top of the thigh bone and a rounded socket in the pelvis. Most hip fractures occur 1-2 inches below the ball portion of the hip.

Causes

A hip fracture is caused by a trauma to the bone. Fractures in young people with healthy bones are cause by major trauma. Fractures in older adults or people with conditions that lead to weakened bones may be caused by minor trauma.

Risk Factors

Factors that increase the risk of fracture in people with healthy bones include:

Motor vehicle accidents and other types of major trauma

Sporting activity that places excess stress on the hip—can lead to stress fractures (rare)

Women are more likey than men to fracture their hips especially after menopause. Other factors that increase the risk of hip fractures include:

Diagnosis

Treatment

Surgery is needed for most hip fractures to make sure the hip heals properly. Surgery will also allow you to move about as you recover. However, surgery may not be appropriate for some people with small fractures or poor overall health. These fractures will be monitored as they heal with imaging tests. Traction may also be used to hold the leg in the appropriate place while the bone heals.

Rehabilitation will be needed as you heal to help you regain muscle strength and balance.

Surgery

Surgery may help prevent complications such as:

Misalignment of the bone—some fractures can make pieces of the bone move out of place, if it heals this way it can cause problems with movement

Interruption of blood flow to the bone—some fractures may slow or block blood flow to the bone which can lead to severe damage

Fractures that are initially stable may become unstable

Fractures that are not repaired in surgery may also require long periods of bed rest. This inactivity can cause other health complications such as blood clots, pneumonia, and bed sores.

The type of surgery will depend on what part of the hip bone was broken, how severe the fracture was and the overall health of your bone. Surgical options include:

Insertion of surgical plates and screws to realign the bones and/or support the fractured area. The bone will be able to heal more securely.

Hip replacement—damaged areas of bone are removed and metal devices are inserted in their place. This surgery is reserved for those with severe bone injury or disease. More common in older adults.

Physical Assistance

You will be encouraged to get up and moving shortly after surgery. The amount of weight you can place on your hip will depend on the type of fracture and surgery. Your doctor will recommend assistive devices such as wheelchair, cane, or walker for your recovery and rehabilitation. You may also need help for daily tasks once you return home. Some may also need to spend time in a rehabilitation facility during the early stages of recovery.

Exercises and physical therapy will also be recommended to help you return to your normal level of activity.

Prevention

Major trauma is typically caused by accidents and hard to avoid.

Talk to your doctor if you have
osteoporosis
or are at risk for osteoporosis. Medications, dietary changes, and weight bearing activities may help slow bone loss.

To reduce the risk of falls:

Ask your doctor if any of your medications may contribute to bone loss or symptoms of lightheadedness, drowsiness, or confusion.

Get your eyes checked regularly.

Clean spills and slippery areas right away.

Remove tripping hazards such as loose cords, rugs, and clutter.

Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and shower.

Install grab bars next to the toilet and in the shower or tub.

Put in handrails on both sides of stairways.

Walk only in well-lit rooms, stairs, and halls.

Keep flashlights on hand in case of a power outage.

RESOURCES

FamilyDoctor.org—American Academy of Family Physicians
http://familydoctor.org

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.